Using Your Teacher Voice
Directing, re-directing, and more: Who are you speaking up for?
Ah…the “Teacher Voice.” You know the one.
It’s that distinct, finely tuned, slightly amplified register we deploy when things get loud, or off-track, or when a simple question needs a laser-focused, three-part answer delivered to an entire room. It’s the vocal equivalent of a light switch being flipped from “off” to “I Am in Command.”
As educators, we learn to use it almost instinctively. And sometimes, it just...leaks out.
I once found myself in the sporting goods section of my local Walmart, when I came upon a couple of kids—picture 4th graders—who were were having an impromptu dodgeball tournament with the available merchandise. Balls were bouncing everywhere—a chaotic disaster.
Before I could even process what I was doing, my Teacher Voice activated.
“Okay! Let’s put those back right now. Pick up every single ball and put it where you found it. Let’s go!”
It wasn’t overly harsh, but it was direct, clear, and dripping with authority. The kids froze, looked at the random grown-up in their aisle, and then, completely stunned, hustled to clean up the mess and flee the scene. A small victory for order!
Then came the awkward realization: These aren’t my students. I was just a random citizen at a big box store, and using a voice I’d engineered for classroom management. It made me smile, but it also made me think.
We often define the “Teacher Voice” by its utility in correction and direction. It’s what helps us keep the bus moving, the classroom orderly, and the learning focused.
But what if we considered our Teacher Voice in a broader, more metaphorical sense?
Your voice—your perspective, your experience, and your unique calling—is one of the most powerful tools you possess. As a Christian educator, you are uniquely positioned not just to direct young people, but to influence and advocate for them.
This is the deeper, more significant meaning of your Teacher Voice. It’s the way you speak up for someone.
This metaphorical voice challenges us to step beyond the walls of our classroom:
Advocate for your students: Who are the young people who need you to be their clear, confident voice? It might mean speaking to an administrator, a parent, or even another colleague to ensure a student’s need is met or their potential is seen.
Encourage your colleagues: Our profession can feel isolating. Use your voice to celebrate the wins, offer encouragement during the tough seasons, and share your best ideas generously. Be the positive jolt your teammate needs today.
Elevate our profession: Collectively, we must use our voices to remind the world that teaching is not a job, but a vocation—one of profound dignity and impact. Speak well of your work and your peers. Share the joy and the evidence of the difference you make every single day.
When we use our Teacher Voice this way—grounded in our purpose and driven by love—we become more than just instructors; we become essential agents of change.
We have been given the immense privilege of using our voice to make a difference in the lives of children, families, and our communities. It is a gift that echoes far beyond the walls of a classroom or the aisle of a sporting goods store.
Who are you going to influence with your voice today?
Dave’s Faves
Here are three things I’m absolutely loving right now that I hope you might love too…
Dave’s Fave #1: 10 Things Every Student Should Know About Artificial Intelligence
My Aussie pal, Paul Matthews, writes about AI with an eye towards equipping Christian educators, and he recently released a short eBook on Amazon entitled 10 Things Every Student Should Know About Artificial Intelligence. I was privileged to be an early reader, and it’s a GREAT resource. It’s my pleasure to recommend it to you. (And you can even read the pdf for free at Paul’s LinkedIn: here’s the link to the post…)
Dave’s Fave #2: The Northern Lights!
The science teacher in me is giddy—the aurora borealis was on fine display in Northwest Iowa on Tuesday night! Solar wind exciting gas molecules in Earth’s upper atmosphere means a light show like no other. Here are a few shots, but seeing it with my own eyes was an amazing experience!
It was amazing to watch the colors shimmer and shift! What a glorious God who paints the night sky with such brilliance!
The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.~ Psalm 19:1
Dave’s Fave #3: Sixpence None The Richer
Okay, it’s a throwback, for sure. Any of my fellow Gen Xers remember this gem? The eponymous 1997 album by Sixpence None The Richer includes some of their biggest hits (“Kiss Me” and “There She Goes”) but also some other great songs, like “I Can’t Catch You” and the gorgeous lilt of “I Won’t Stay Long.” Whether you’ve never heard of this band, or you just haven’t thought about them for a hot second, give this one a whirl for a jolt of late-90s Christian alternative rock with a folksy vibe. Drop me a comment to let me know what you think!
The Last Word!
My new book, Teach Like a Human, is gaining momentum as a guide for integrating serious faith and playful practice in the age of AI.
Exclusive Bulk Book Discount
School leaders, if you are planning a faculty reading group (10 or more teachers), take advantage of this special offer: the book is yours for just $20 per copy—that’s a 25% saving off the $27 retail price! (Teachers, tell your admins!)
To request your discounted order, reply to this email with “Book Order” and we’ll get it moving!
Tailored AI Professional Development
Are you looking for a dynamic PD workshop or webinar to help your faculty confidently address AI in their classrooms? I am booking speaking engagements now.
Visit my Speaking and Presenting page to view topics and availability, or reply to this email with “PD Inquiry” to start a conversation.
I love your story, Dave! I've found that I can slow down speeding drivers on my street, just by channeling my teacher look. Thanks for reminding us to use our teacher presence in ways that encourage rather than just deter.
I love your message on using our teacher voices, Dave. You delivered an impactful message that changed how my day started - thank you.